Trump Credits Navy SEALs for bin Laden Operation in Naval Speech

Former President Donald Trump praised US Navy SEALs for their role in killing Osama bin Laden. He made the remarks during a speech in Norfolk, Virginia. The event celebrated the US Navy’s 250th birthday.

Trump emphasized the historic nature of the 2011 military operation. He also repeated a long-standing claim about his own foresight regarding the Al Qaeda leader.

Recounting the Bin Laden Raid and Personal Claims

Trump specifically highlighted the SEALs’ actions. He stated they were the ones who stormed the compound. He said they put a bullet in the terrorist leader’s head.

According to Trump, he had warned about bin Laden a year before the 9/11 attacks. He asserted that the media would not let him make such a statement if it were not true. This claim has been a recurring part of his political rhetoric for years.

The operation itself was authorized by President Barack Obama. US forces located and killed bin Laden in Abbottabad, Pakistan. The mission was a significant milestone in the fight against Al Qaeda.

Broader Commentary on US Military Policy

The former president also commented on the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. He was sharply critical of the exit executed under President Joe Biden. Trump claimed the US could have easily won the war there.

He argued that political correctness hampered military success. His speech called for a more decisive approach to future conflicts. This perspective aligns with his established public stance on foreign policy.

The remarks reinforce his narrative of strong leadership. They also serve to contrast his approach with that of his successors. The speech was received by an audience of naval personnel and supporters.

The former president’s speech firmly credited the Navy SEALs for their decisive role. His focus on the bin Laden operation underscored a key moment in US military history. The event highlighted ongoing political debates surrounding national security and presidential legacy.

Thought you’d like to know

Who authorized the operation that killed Osama bin Laden?

Then-President Barack Obama authorized the military operation. The raid was carried out by US Navy SEALs in Pakistan. Obama publicly confirmed the mission’s success in a national address.

Where was Osama bin Laden found and killed?

Osama bin Laden was hiding in a compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan. The location was not far from a major Pakistani military academy. US forces located him there after a lengthy intelligence effort.

What did Trump claim about his knowledge of bin Laden?

Trump stated he warned about bin Laden one year before the 9/11 attacks. He said he told authorities they needed to watch the Al Qaeda leader. He has frequently cited this as an example of his foresight.

How did Trump characterize the US exit from Afghanistan?

He was highly critical of the withdrawal under the Biden administration. Trump claimed the US could have “won Afghanistan easy.” He attributed the outcome to political correctness.

What happened to Osama bin Laden’s body after the raid?

His body was taken to the USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier. The US military conducted burial procedures at sea. This was done in accordance with Islamic practice and to avoid creating a shrine.

Trusted Sources

Associated Press, Reuters